“Empowering Communities: Special Outreach Programme on Breastfeeding, Girl Child Education, and Financial Inclusion in Seerapalayam Village”
On September 28th, 2024, the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting’s Central Bureau of Communication, Government of India, in collaboration with Sree Abirami College of Nursing, Coimbatore, organized a special outreach program in Seerapalayam village. The event focused on the importance of breastfeeding, saving and educating the girl child, and promoting awareness about the Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana—a national mission on financial inclusion.
The program commenced at 3:00 p.m., drawing enthusiastic participation from the residents of Seerapalayam. The atmosphere was vibrant as community members gathered to engage with initiatives aimed at improving health, education, and financial well-being.
Inauguration and Welcome Address
The event began with a warm welcome address by Mrs. R. Chandrashekaran, Technical Assistant at the Central Bureau of Communication, Coimbatore. She emphasized the government’s commitment to community development and the vital role of public participation in the success of welfare schemes.
Keynote and Special Addresses
The keynote address was delivered by Mr. K. Devi Padmanabhum, IAS, Field Publicity Officer of the Central Bureau of Communication, Ministry of Information & Broadcasting, Tiruchirapalli. He highlighted the significance of breastfeeding for infant health and the empowerment of women through education and financial independence. His insights underscored how these elements contribute to the nation’s overall development.
Adding depth to the discussions, Mr. Srinithi, Child Development Project Officer (ICDS) from Madukkarai, spoke passionately about child development and the Integrated Child Development Services schemes. He shed light on the critical stages of early childhood growth and the government’s efforts to support families in nurturing healthy children.
Financial Inclusion Insights
Mr. A. Revi, Financial Literacy Counselor from Canara Bank, Coimbatore, provided valuable information about financial schemes aimed at empowering women, such as the Manamagal Loan. He explained how access to financial services can uplift families economically and encouraged villagers to take advantage of these opportunities for a more secure future.
Student Participation and Performances
A highlight of the program was the active involvement of fourth-year B.Sc Nursing students from Sree Abirami College of Nursing. They presented an outstanding awareness program using Villupaatu, a traditional Tamil folk art that combines storytelling and music, to convey the importance of breastfeeding in an engaging and culturally resonant manner. Their performance captivated the audience, making complex health information accessible and memorable.
Following the Villupaatu, the students performed a skit that depicted real-life scenarios emphasizing the benefits of breastfeeding for both mother and child. The skit addressed common misconceptions and barriers, offering practical solutions and encouraging community support for nursing mothers.
Spot Speech Competition and Recognition
An impromptu speech competition was conducted, providing a platform for participants to express their thoughts on the day’s themes. The nursing students showcased exceptional oratory skills and a deep understanding of the topics. Their contributions were recognized with appreciation prizes presented by the chief guest, Mr. K. Devi Padmanabhum, IAS. This recognition highlighted the students’ dedication to community health education and their potential as future healthcare leaders.
Community Engagement and Impact
The residents of Seerapalayam village responded enthusiastically to the program. The interactive sessions and performances fostered a collaborative atmosphere where villagers felt empowered to ask questions and share their experiences. The event successfully raised awareness about critical issues affecting women and children, promoting a holistic approach to community well-being.
Conclusion and National Anthem
The program concluded with a heartfelt rendition of the National Anthem by the final-year B.Sc nursing students. The collective singing fostered a sense of unity and national pride, leaving a lasting impression on all attendees.
Reflection
The special outreach program was a significant step toward bridging the gap between government initiatives and rural communities. By combining informative speeches, cultural performances, and interactive activities, the event not only educated but also inspired the villagers to take proactive steps to improve their health, education, and financial status.
The collaboration between the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting’s Central Bureau of Communication and Sree Abirami College of Nursing exemplifies the impact of partnerships in driving social change. The students’ involvement provided them with practical experience in community outreach, enhancing their educational journey and commitment to serving society.
As the villagers departed, there was a palpable sense of empowerment and optimism. Equipped with new knowledge about breastfeeding, the importance of educating girls, and financial inclusion schemes like Jan Dhan Yojana, the community is better positioned to make informed decisions that will benefit future generations.